Microphones and rain buckets are being used to help detect landslides before they happen

Landslides can be devastating natural disasters, causing destruction and loss of life. The need for early warning systems to alert people of impending landslides has become increasingly important, especially with the unpredictable and intense weather patterns brought on by climate change.

In British Columbia, Canada, the largest landslide in Canadian history occurred on Mount Meager in 2010. Thankfully, no one was killed in this remote area, but the event prompted the installation of a new network of ultrasensitive microphones in Pemberton, B.C., near Mount Meager. These microphones can detect low-frequency sounds, known as infrasound, that signal the onset of a landslide. The goal is to provide early warnings to give people time to respond and evacuate if necessary.

The project in Pemberton also plans to install small earthquake sensors to further enhance the early warning system. With the potential for debris to flow down the river valley towards populated areas like Pemberton, having a warning system in place is crucial to saving lives and property.

Glyn Williams-Jones, a volcanologist from Simon Fraser University, emphasizes the importance of community involvement in these early warning systems. By collaborating with local groups, such as the Lil’wat Nation in Pemberton, trust and relationships are built, ensuring that community members are informed and prepared in the event of a major landslide.

In Sitka, Alaska, a unique approach to monitoring landslide risk involves rainwater buckets equipped with sensors. By tracking rainfall patterns, residents can access a website to view the current landslide risk in their area. This community-driven initiative was born out of a tragic event in 2015 when heavy rainfall triggered over 40 landslides, resulting in three fatalities.

The success of these early warning systems relies on the collaboration between scientists, community members, and local organizations. By working together and leveraging technology, we can better prepare for and respond to natural disasters like landslides. As climate change continues to impact our world, the need for effective warning systems will only grow, making projects like the ones in British Columbia and Alaska essential for keeping people safe.